Contains spoilers
A imaginative, inspiring, and insightful second-halfer that feels like a spiritual restaging of Ecotopia. Along with Mosscap, we are treated to further glimpses of how a prosperous post-capitalist human society is running, from family and romantic relations, to work and orientations to the exchange of services.
Two moments I'm fond of are the fishing scene ("together, they held vigil as something that had never existed before and never would again ceased its struggling and came to an end"), and when Mosscap calls out Dex's use of metaphors that malign non-humans, as a callback to how it is not just an object in the first book ("All parasites have value, Sibling Dex. Not to their hosts, perhaps, but you could say the same about a predator and a prey animal. They all give back—not to the individual but to the ecosystem at large").
I only wish we got to see Becky's worldbuilding treatment of the city and university, but the pair's detour at the end felt like a fitting and heartwarming close (or continuation) to their journey.
A masterclass in ecotopian / hopepunk / utopian climate fiction writing.
Absolutely amazing! I literally couldn't put it down when I started reading. Definitely one of my all time favourites.
Filled with real characters, poetic language, and overall an immensely beautiful, emotional and immersive read.
Real, inspiring, and full of love. A recommended read for any parents, christians, and/or people who need some cheering up and perspective on life..